Thursday, February 2, 2012

Thursday2Yes, it’s Groundhog Day, and Jerry's Wicker Park is celebrating by offering wild boar sloppy joes with fig vinegar barbecue sauce and screening Bill Murray’s classic Groundhog Day all day and night. The sandwich will stay on the menu for the following week, but Groundhog Day apparently ends for the movie. 10 AM-2 AM, Jerry’s Wicker Park, 1938 W. Division, 773-235-1006, free.

Friday3If you’re thinking about cooking up some chili for the Super Bowl, local chefs Matt Eversman and Chao Thapthimkuna have you covered with three different chili recipes: Tallgrass beef, seafood, and vegetarian. Bill Kurtis will also be on hand. 11 AM-1:30 PM, 4-6PM, Chicago French Market, 131 N. Clinton, 312-575-0306, free.

Saturday4Gaper's Block hosts its first BBQ Bowl, pitting smokers from across the city against each other in pursuit of the popular and critics' vote. Honky Tonk BBQ, the Piggery, Pork Shoppe, and Rub BBQ Company will all show, but my money's on Honey 1 BBQ. $25 gets you a taste from each competitor, plus sides. Music by the Congregation and Koval Distillery will be on hand for a free tasting. Noon, Club Lucky, 1824 W. Wabansia, 773-227-2300.

Evolution Wine and Spirits' Beer Battle Before the Bowl features a blind tasting of New York and New England brews including Dogfish Head, Samuel Adams, Brooklyn Brewery, and McSorley’s. 2 PM, Evolution Wines and Spirits, 1704 N. Milwaukee, 773-772-9463, free.

Founders Brewery is kicking off the release of its new All Day IPA with a shindig at Binny’s South Loop. Along with All Day IPA there will be tastings of other Founders varieties, including Breakfast Stout and Backwoods Bastard. RSVP required. 6-8 PM, Binny’s South Loop, 1132 S. Jefferson, 312-768-4400, $5.

Tuesday7Lakeview’s Northdown Cafe and Taproom is hosting a 5 Rabbits Brewery Night. A new variety, Huitzi, will be released and Randy Mosher, creative consultant for 5 Rabbit, will be signing his books, including Tasting Beer: An Insider’s Guide to the World’s Greatest Drink. 6-11 PM, Northdown Cafe and Taproom, 3244 N. Lincoln, 773-697-7578, free.